While Xbox and Bethesda Game Studios continue to update Starfield and Fallout 76, most of the studio’s attention is now on The Elder Scrolls 6, a title first announced over seven years ago in 2018.
Few details have been released about the anticipated fantasy RPG, a successor to Skyrim. However, new information recently emerged from an interview
with Bethesda’s executive producer and game director, Todd Howard.
Howard stated that The Elder Scrolls 6 aims to be a “classic” Bethesda game, distinguishing itself from more experimental projects such as Fallout 76 and Starfield. He also confirmed the game will utilize “Creation Engine 3,” the newest version of the proprietary engine Bethesda has employed for its RPGs since 2002’s Morrowind.
Howard explained to Kinda Funny host Greg Miller that Bethesda has a preferred style that resonates with its audience. He described Fallout 76 and Starfield as “creative detours” from the traditional Elder Scrolls and Fallout exploration style. With The Elder Scrolls 6, the studio is returning to this familiar “classic style.”
He further elaborated that the studio believes players expect a certain game style from them, and there is still ample room for innovation within that framework. The goal is for players to feel a fresh experience when entering the game world, and the development is progressing positively.
The Elder Scrolls 6 is anticipated to be a traditional Bethesda RPG, akin to Skyrim or Fallout 4, diverging from Starfield’s broader scope and Fallout 76‘s multiplayer focus.
Regarding the Creation Engine, Howard stated that the team has dedicated years to upgrading Creation Engine 2, which powers Starfield, to Creation Engine 3. This new iteration will be used for The Elder Scrolls 6 and future projects. He expressed satisfaction with advancements in rendering, world systems, loading, and the immediate detail presentation near the camera.
While Bethesda’s continued use of its in-house engine for The Elder Scrolls 6 and potential future games like Fallout 5 was anticipated, official confirmation came recently. Some concerns persist due to the Creation Engine’s history of bugs and frequent loading screens; hopefully, Bethesda’s upgrades will effectively resolve these issues.
The Creation Engine’s continued use elicits varied reactions, but the prospect of The Elder Scrolls 6 returning to a traditional Bethesda game style is generally welcomed. Some found Starfield’s expansive but shallow nature less engaging, leading to hopes that the upcoming RPG will offer a denser, richer experience, even if on a smaller scale.
Howard previously mentioned that The Elder Scrolls 6 is “progressing really well,” but remains “a long ways off.” A release date is still unknown, but the game will be available on Xbox and PC, and via Xbox Game Pass.
